Daly Bay Illuminate will bring Mackay’s City Centre to life this weekend, with lights, music, food and more!
The event, running from this Thursday to Sunday, will see evenings filled with dazzling displays, entertainment and family-friendly fun.
Each night from 6pm to 9pm the city will come to life with large-scale projections showcasing First Nations and community artwork.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the event won’t disappoint.
“The highlight of Illuminate this year will be a giant humpback whale puppet that will come to life at the Civic Centre grounds each evening from 8.15pm to 8.45pm,” Mayor Williamson said.
Theatre group, Curious Legends will perform alongside the whale in a magical theatre procession to celebrate the humpback whale migration.
You can check out the ocean-themed shop fronts and enjoy plenty of tastes, smells and sounds, as you stroll along Gordon Street, Wood Street, River Street and Bluewater Quay.
“There will be different live music playing each night, and a fantastic selection of food vendors, offering delicious pizza, barbecue ribs, gourmet sausages, waffles, ice cream and so much more,” Mayor Williamson said.
You can make your own baby stingray puppet at community workshops each night and bring along to swim aside the humpback whale during the main performance.
Mayor Williamson said the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub would also return to Bluewater Quay and will run at the same time as Illuminate.
“Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub will this year offer a blend of music, culinary delights and fun for the whole family,” Mayor Williamson said.
For more information on the full 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts program, visit ourmackay.com.au/festivals
